The Art of Making Mauritian Roti

Roti, also called farata in Mauritius, is a soft, flaky flatbread that's a staple across the island. While it traces its origins to Indian cuisine, the Mauritian roti has evolved with Creole flair—offering unique fillings, street food vibes, and family recipes passed down through generations. Whether served plain, with buttery layers, or filled with spicy curries, roti is comfort food with cultural depth.

A Brief History of Mauritian Roti

Roti arrived in Mauritius with Indian indentured laborers during the 19th century. Over time, local cooks adapted it using island ingredients and turned it into an affordable, flavorful street staple.

You’ll now find it in homes, food stalls, and even high-end restaurants—with each place putting a spin on the classic.

‍Ingredients for Traditional Mauritian Roti

Basic dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp oil or melted ghee
• Warm water (as needed)

Optional: A bit of butter for extra flakiness

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Mix the Dough

Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add oil, then gradually pour warm water while kneading to form a soft, elastic dough.

2. Let it Rest

Cover with a cloth and let the dough rest for 20–30 minutes to relax the gluten.

3. Roll into Balls

Divide into small balls (golf-ball size). Dust lightly with flour.

4. Roll Flat

Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into a thin round disc.

5. Cook on Tava or Pan

Heat a dry pan or flat griddle. Cook each roti until it puffs slightly and gets golden spots—about 1–2 minutes per side.

6. Butter & Fold

Optional: Brush with ghee or butter while hot, then fold into quarters or roll.

Common Roti Fillings & Accompaniments

Mauritian rotis are rarely eaten alone—they’re always paired with flavorful sides like:

• Cari Gros Pois (butter bean curry)
• Rougaille (Creole tomato sauce with meat or tofu)
• Chutney coco (coconut chutney)
• Pickled vegetables or achar
• Chili paste for a fiery kick

Variations of Mauritian Roti

Mauritian flatbreads are a staple of the island’s street food culture, with each variety offering a unique texture and taste.

Farata is Mauritius’ take on the Indian paratha—slightly thicker, flakier, and often layered. It’s typically served hot with chutneys, pickles, or spicy curries.

Dholl Puri, perhaps the most iconic, is a thin flatbread stuffed with ground split peas and turmeric. Rolled up and filled with butter bean curry, rougaille, or atchar, it’s a beloved street-side favorite.

Stuffed Roti takes the comfort level up a notch, packed with curried potatoes, lentils, or sautéed vegetables. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch on the go.

Mini Rotis are bite-sized delights often served at weddings or as snacks. They’re usually filled with the same spiced mixtures and make for delicious finger food.

These flatbreads are more than just carbs—they're carriers of culture, best enjoyed warm and fresh from a local stall.

Where to Try It in Mauritius

Street Spots:

• Port Louis Central Market
• Rose Hill street stalls
• Mahébourg food trucks
• Flacq Fair on Wednesdays & Sundays

Cost per roti: $0.50–$2

Local Favorite: Order “2 faratas gros pois rougaille pima” for a full, traditional experience.

‍Take a Roti-Making Class

Want to take the flavor home?

‍Where to Learn:

• La Maison de Coco – artisan cooking classes
• Lakaz Mama – home kitchen Creole classes
• Cooking With Mauritian Locals (Airbnb Experiences)

Duration: 2–3 hours
Cost: $25–$50 per session

Tips for Travelers

• Always eat roti hot and fresh—it’s at its best warm off the griddle.
• Locals often roll their roti into cones for easy eating on the go.
• Don’t skip the chili paste if you enjoy heat—it brings out authentic flavor.

Mauritian roti isn’t just food—it’s a flavorful journey through the island’s multicultural history, served hot and folded in paper. Whether you're biting into a buttery farata at a bustling market or mastering the art of dholl puri in a local kitchen, each roti tells a story of heritage, comfort, and everyday joy.

Craving an authentic taste of Mauritius? Let Hi DMC curate a culinary experience just for you—from street food trails to hands-on roti-making classes with local chefs.

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